I'm a Compass Beta Tester!

In July, when I heard Translink was looking for volunteers to test their new Compass Card, I registered.  At that time, they were looking for 5,000 active translink users, but they were more popular than they thought because they ended up with 10,000 volunteers testing for them. Yes, volunteers. Because we get basically nothing in return. Not even a free trip! But yup, I signed up.

So if you haven't heard yet, the Compass card is going to replace all the paper tickets that Translink currently uses. In early September, I received a Compass card in the mail. 

Compass card

What else did I get? 10 informational handouts and a Beta Tester Guide Book.

Beta Tester Guide Book & informational handouts

The testing officially started on September 9th. We were told to tap in and out when taking transit, but also paying for our fares or showing our pass like normal. Even though the cards came charged with a monthly pass or money, they were "fake" as it was just used to test the system. 

Informational handouts are for those who are curious and want to learn more about the new Compass card. Here it is: 

Some Compass Quick Facts:

- Compass will replace over 150 different tickets and passes used today.

- Compass will be easy to use. You'll simply tap in to enter and tap out to exit, and the system will automatically determine the correct amount to charge (at tap out). 

- Card registration will offer features like AutoLoad and Balance Protection, which protects the value of a card in the event it's lost or stolen.

- As fare gates go up, fare evasion will go down - and transit riders will enjoy a safer, more secure transit experience. 

On buses, you tap in near the bus driver and tap out right at the doors. I'm sure you've all seen this around:

And for sky train and Canada Line stations, there will be gates that open and close. 

Q & A

Why did I sign up when there's no perks/free rides?

The big reason is that I am a curious individual, but wait, there is a perk - being the first to try out the new transit system in Vancouver! But I agree, TransLink should definitely involve some free rides or load up our cards for real for us volunteers. The small reason (as cheesy as it may sound) is that I do want to be helpful to TransLink as they have been really helpful to me for the past 10 years. Taking me to and from school, to and from some of the most special events in my life thus far, and providing me quite a comfortable place to nap...etc.

Why is it important to tap out? 

So that we're charged for the appropriate zones we travel. I believe the default is 3 zones if we don't tap out - what a killer. So, remember to tap out! Also, this apparently gives them data to know where people are travelling in order to manage the schedules, etc. 

Do I have any concerns? If only the 99 B-line back doors and the compass card readers could swap sensitivities... 

My concerns are with the speed of the tapping system. I don't find them being very responsive as it doesn't detect my card right away. Apparently, people go in/out the same way - so I can't imagine rush hour and how chaotic it'll be. Having to tap out will also slow down traffic? Hopefully it's better than the picture in my head.

Generally, I'm supportive of the new system - way less waste and litter on the ground and much more environmentally-friendly. It's about time.

Compass cards are for a refundable deposit of $6. Then start loading up your card with money because it's cheaper than paying with cash!

More info on TransLink's website

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Moii Cafe Cambie: An artsy Japanese x French cafe

I re-docorated my home!

Just kidding! This is actually the interior of Moii Cafe, a spacious coffee/snack cafe located on Cambie & Broadway. At first, I thought it was weird that it's "Moii" with two i's and how it translates to "me cafe". It is actually quite interesting and here is their explanation: "Moii is a combination word from French "moi" (I) and Japanese "なつでもいい" (It is ok/whatever) forms an idea and spirit of "it's ok to be myself; this is who i am." How creative! 

The entire place is very nicely decorated. Relatively, it is large and spacious, yet it gives a cozy and homey feeling once you step inside. Turns out that the owner is a graduate from Emily Carr University and wanted a place for artists to showcase their work for others to enjoy. What a great idea that I'd totally support. Already liking this place. Now on to the food. 

This is the tuna and cheese crepe and a cup of green tea. Now I think I prefer sweet crepes over savoury crepes. Nonetheless, I always find myself ordering savoury ones - probably so that I don't feel like I'm having dessert. The crepe was pretty good but I cannot say it's the best I've had. Though I do love the fact that it's freshly made.  So, once in a while, the shop would be overflowed with a very nice smell that'll suck you into ordering a crepe. 

Tuna and cheese crepe

They also have a variety of drinks. I got the matcha green tea - I love matcha. This was very good - creamy and not too sweet. The only thing I'd change is to add less milk. 

matcha green tea latte

 School has been back for almost a month now and I'm sure coffee shops have gotten busier as well. When I was a student, I did not really like studying in coffee shops because I get distracted easily. However, I'd be up for catch up with a friend or for "people watching" anytime at a coffee shop! I think this is a perfect place for those who enjoy studying in cafes. Look at the space and they even have a study room for group meetings/projects. 

Study room/ group meeting

Thirsty? They have complimentary lemon water! Have I mentioned that it's perfect for studying? Homey feel, crepes to order, study room, spacious... it's the whole package.

If I knew about this place earlier, I'd probably love studying here. I wouldn't be too surprised if this place gets busy during exam periods. 

Moii Cafe Menu

Moii Cafe menu

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